Eye of the Needle Pose

Eye of the needle pose is a supine hip-opening asana that stretches the outer hips and lower back.

To enter the pose, begin lying down on the back. Bring the knees in toward the chest. Cross the right ankle over the left thigh, allowing the right knee to drop gently open to the side. Reaching both hands around either side of the left thigh, bring them into a clasp. Mindfully pull the left knee toward the chest while continuing to drop the right knee open. Hold for several breaths then release and repeat on the opposite side.

The Sanskrit name for eye of the needle pose is sucirandhrasana.

Yogapedia explains Eye of the Needle Pose

Eye of the needle pose is an easy pose for beginners and a good way to stretch the hips, preparing them for more intense asanas. It is also a nice alternative to pigeon pose. The pose is often used at the end of a hatha flow or vinyasa sequence in preparation for savasana or a seated meditation.